Ten Hag threatens to BIN Weghorst

Tom Weber

• Updated: 12 Apr 2023 16:43 BST
• 3 min read

Wout Weghorst's time at Manchester United could be coming to an end as Erik ten Hag seems to prefer other options now.

The Dutchman arrived in January on loan from second-division Burnley, but he has not had the desired impact. Indeed, the lanky striker has not found the back of the net once in Premier League since joining, his only two goals coming in the Europa League and the EFL Cup.

Ten Hag has, at time, tinkered with the 197cm (6 ft 5 in) giant, playing him in a more withdrawn role as a midfielder to make better use of his impressive physical features and decent pressing ability. Despite this, the main focus has always been on his lack of goalscoring and the 30-year-old has earned himself plenty of criticism.

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His compatriot and coach, however, had previously defended the striker. "He's doing a really good job for us," Ten Hag said. "He is the leader of our press and links up really well. He makes good movements and makes space for others and is good in set-plays. He is really contributing to this team."

Now, though, it appears even Ten Hag's patience is running thin.

What did Ten Hag say?

Speaking to the media ahead of Thursday's Europa League clash with Sevilla, Ten Hag hinted that Weghorst may have finally lost his place in the side for good after only being a substitute in United's past two Premier League outings.

Asked about the oft-injured Anthony Martial who, like Weghorst, came off the bench (and scored) in the recent 2-0 win over relegation-threatened Everton, Ten Hag said: "We don't have to force things [with Martial]. We are careful."

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"The front line against Everton," he concluded, "worked really well." Weghorst was not part of the front line that scored twice, and he may not be going forward. It could be the end of what will ultimately go down as a disappointing spell.

Indeed, recent reports suggest that United have no interest in making his loan move permanent.